Jordan Mechner has revealed that he’s working on a Karateka remake for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. It will be available as a downloadable title on PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade later in 2012. This is outstanding news. I have fond memories of playing Karateka as a kid on my Commodore 64. It was one of the first games (that I can recall) that used music and cutscenes to create an atmosphere larger than the gameplay. Nearly 30 years later, I’m psyched to see how Mechner uses modern game development tools to re-imagine Karateka. Here’s what he said in today’s press release:
Making the original Karateka was a labor of love. To have so many people embrace it and share the impact that game had on them has been incredibly fulfilling. In remaking Karateka, I want to honor the original with a compact, pick-up-and-play game that is fluid, atmospheric and beautiful.
This wouldn’t be the first time Mechner has revisited one of his classic creations. He worked with Ubi Soft as a game designer, writer, and creative consultant for the Prince of Persia remake. That one turned out pretty excellent, don’t you agree? I’m also excited to see a gaming legend return to show the new kids how it’s done. It’s going to be fun tracking the development of the new Karateka and hopefully it will be even more fun to play.
Any of you old enough to remember Karateka? You psyched for the Karateka remake?
Nope! I'm sure N8 will remember with you, you fossils! Jk